Category Archives: Uncategorized

Spiritual Rescue 101

Posted on April 3, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Television is filled with a long list of programs featuring dramatic rescues. While not everyone survives, rescue scenes are designed to grab and hold an audience’s attention. In the first century, one of Jesus’ disciples and the apostle Paul refers to God’s ability to rescue Christians out of temptation. Yet, if God knows how to rescue Christians out of temptation, why do so many saints fall from grace daily?

Now if [all these things are true, then be sure] the Lord knows how to rescue the godly out of temptations and trials, and how to keep the ungodly under chastisement until the day of judgment and doom, 2 Peter 2:9.

One of Jesus’ disciples makes an assumption in the passage above. Under the surface, Peter suggests that the ungodly have already made up their mind about God. Rather than follow a rigid set of guidelines and rules for life, many choose to chase after temporary pleasures while on earth. Subsequently, when a tempting situation arises, the human flesh is indulged to satisfy these natural desires.

For no temptation (no trial regarded as enticing to sin), [no matter how it comes or where it leads] has overtaken you and laid hold on you that is not common to man [that is, no temptation or trial has come to you that is beyond human resistance and that is not [b]adjusted and [c]adapted and belonging to human experience, and such as man can bear]. But God is faithful [to His Word and to His compassionate nature], and He [can be trusted] not to let you be tempted and tried and assayed beyond your ability and strength of resistance and power to endure, but with the temptation He will [always] also provide the way out (the means of escape to [d]a landing place), that you may be capable and strong and powerful to bear up under it patiently, 1 Corinthians 10:13.

Meanwhile, the apostle Paul takes a proactive approach toward temptation. Following a history lesson of Israel’s past shortcomings, Paul illustrates how to escape temptation. Whether you are dealing with a difficult situation, hardship or a trial, this is a natural part of life. However, when you are enduring these circumstances, God provides a way out that will avoid temptation. Therefore, if you are in a desperate need of a spiritual rescue, look for a means of escape so that your faith stands tall.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 61: Different Kind of Free

Posted on April 2, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Today’s featured group is an American Christian teen pop rock band that formed in 1999. When I first learned that my favorite Christian Bookstore was going out of business at the end of the month, I spent as much free time as possible searching for the best music available. During one of my last visits, I found a collection from Zoe Girl. This two CD Set contain several fabulous songs that I had never heard before.

In [this] freedom Christ has made us free [and completely liberated us]; stand fast then, and do not be hampered and held ensnared and submit again to a yoke of slavery [which you have once put off], Galatians 5:1.

My favorite song turned out to be a Different Kind of Free. I’m not sure if this is the original or a remix, but today’s version of a Different Kind of Free combines Pop with Hip Hop. The final stanza contains a hint of rap that urges girls to experience the freedom which comes from entering a personal relationship with Jesus, Romans 10:9-11. As you listen, may you be moved to draw closer to the Lord.

by Jay Mankus

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The Unreasoning

Posted on April 2, 2022 by expressyourself4him

If you like to meet new people, it won’t be long before you experience a one-sided conversation. If you enjoy politics, cable television is full of panel discussions with at least one stubborn individual who doesn’t listen to what other people are saying. One of Jesus’ disciples compares this personality type to unreasoning beasts that are uncontrollable. Not matter how hard you may try, the unreasoning won’t budge.

But these [people]! Like unreasoning beasts, mere creatures of instinct, born [only] to be captured and destroyed, railing at things of which they are ignorant, they shall utterly perish in their [own] corruption [in their destroying they shall surely be destroyed], 2 Peter 2:12.

Jesus’ earthly brother offers one likely scenario to help explain why people end up becoming unreasonable, James 1:13-15. If your mind is already made up, you may listen to advice that is offered but will ultimately follow what your heart is set on doing. For example, my dog is a husky who is friendly and kind. However, when Akira senses that there is a rabbit or squirrel in the back yard, she transforms into an unreasoning beast who follows her instincts.

But understand this, that in the last days will come (set in) perilous times of great stress and trouble [hard to deal with and hard to bear]. 2 For people will be lovers of self and [utterly] self-centered, lovers of money and aroused by an inordinate [greedy] desire for wealth, proud and arrogant and contemptuous boasters. They will be abusive (blasphemous, scoffing), disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy and profane, 2 Timothy 3:1-2.

The apostle Paul sets the stage for why people will become unreasoning beasts in the last days prior to the second coming of Jesus. Stress and trouble affect human beings in various ways, often changing their behavior. As these situations in life intensity, desperation sets in along with self-preservation. According to Paul, extreme conditions will push human beings over the edge to become unreasoning. If you find yourself falling prey to the Cancel Culture and wokeness, lean on the power of the Holy Spirit to find your way back to God, Galatians 5:25.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 60: Carmen

Posted on April 1, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Today’s featured song combines a biblical story with music. After getting married in Chicago, my wife Leanne got a position as a youth director in Bolingbrook, Illinois. For nearly two years, we served as partners in youth ministry. One of the first events I attended with this youth group was a Carmen concert at the Rosemont Horizon. Between the dancers, props and overall production of this show, I was blown away.

For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will also bring with Him through Jesus those who have fallen asleep [[h]in death], 1 Thessalonians 4:14.

While my high school mentor and swim coach introduced me to Carmen, seeing these stories of the Bible live come to life in a song was amazing. Following this concert, I purchased nearly all of Carmen’s albums. While Carmen has dozens of famous songs, the athlete in men has made the Champion my favorite. This song is like a scene from one of the Rocky movies that turns into a worship service. I hope you enjoy the Champion.

by Jay Mankus

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The Walkers Prayer

Posted on April 1, 2022 by expressyourself4him

From 1983 to 1986, I ran over 1,000 miles on grass and pavement. Over the summer to prepare for the upcoming Cross Country season, I averaged running 30 miles per week with 150 miles for months when I felt ambitious. After a friend from college introduced me to a section of Psalm 18, I turned this verse into a prayer before I went for a jog. Yet, the context of the passage below is based upon a shepherd approaching rocky terrain. These words serve as a prayer to avoid twisting an ankle as you walk.

For who is God except the Lord? Or who is the Rock save our God, 32 The God who girds me with strength and makes my way perfect? – Psalm 18:31-32

Following a reconstructive surgery on my ankle during my junior year of high school, I was forced to wear a soft cast for five years. Whether I was going to school, off to practice or heading off for a run, this cast took a couple of minutes to slip on and tie the laces to secure my ankle. Before I finished tightening up this cast, I often said a silent prayer to God to protect my ankle from any major contact. If I ever overextended myself following my surgery, my left sock was soaked in blood at the end of the day.

He makes my feet like hinds’ feet [able to stand firmly or make progress on the dangerous heights of testing and trouble]; He sets me securely upon my high places, Psalm 18:33.

There was a time when I took walking for granted. As a teenager and gifted athlete, I never thought about twisting my ankle unless I was going hiking on rocky terrain. Yet, my accident while running and subsequent surgery has forced me to place my faith and trust in the Lord whenever I go for a walk. If you do claim Psalm 18:33 as the Walkers Prayer before going outside, I can’t guarantee that you won’t slip. However, as you approach dangerous terrain, look down and watch each step so your feet are secure.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 59: Overcomer

Posted on March 31, 2022 by expressyourself4him

About five years ago, I discovered a couple of Christian music mixes on You Tube. One collection was Electronic Praise, another Hip Hop, and the final one was Dance. This search on the internet for quality Christian music introduced me to today’s artist. Mandisa followed a song by Capital Kings. As soon as Overcomer started to play, I made an instant connection with the lyrics.

 I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you,] John 16:33.

No one likes to endure disappointment and failure. As a former professional athlete, practice doesn’t always result in improvement. If progress is stunted or you start to regress, you need an overcomer spirit that Mandisa sings about in her song. If you ever find yourself down and out, doubting that you will ever achieve your dreams and goals in life, use Mandisa’ Overcomer to ignite and spark hope.

by Jay Mankus

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Outcasts by a Forced Quarantine

Posted on March 31, 2022 by expressyourself4him

One of the reasons the Book of Leviticus was written is to provide an instruction manual to keep Israel pure and live in holiness before God. Moses was commissioned by God to inform Israel of a priest’s life and their precise work to represent an earthly example of obedience to God for Israel. Just as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention set guidelines and protocols for Covid-19, Leviticus clearly defines God’s standards for future outbreaks. Lepers in the Old Testament experienced one of the first forced quarantines ever recorded on earth.

Then the priest shall examine him, and if the diseased swelling is reddish white on his bald head or forehead like the appearance of leprosy in the skin of the body, 44 He is a leprous man; he is unclean; the priest shall surely pronounce him unclean; his disease is on his head, Leviticus 13:43-44.

As the creator of man and woman, God understood how vulnerable human bodies would become after sin entered the world in Genesis 3. While Leviticus is a tough read, any doctor or nurse would find the medical protocols fascinating. The goal of this book is to educate individuals on how to stop the spread of disease. If you go back to March of 2020, some of the health standards implemented by the CDC come straight out of the Bible. Although washing your hands regularly and staying six feet apart may seem like a drag, it plays an important role in keeping people healthy.

And the leper’s clothes shall be rent, and the hair of his head shall hang loose, and he shall cover his upper lip and cry, Unclean, unclean! 46 He shall remain unclean as long as the disease is in him; he is unclean; he shall live alone [and] his dwelling shall be outside the camp, Leviticus 13:45-46.

If you’ve ever contracted Covid-19, the chicken pox or any other contagious disease, you understand what it feels like to be quarantined. As for first century lepers who had encounters with Jesus, each was responsible for following the rules listed above whenever someone passing by got too close. Lepers were forced to live outside of the city limits until a priest gave them a clean bill of health to return to society. Until healing occurred, lepers could not be held or touched. This was deemed unsafe like those family members were who prevented from visiting hospitals and nursing homes to see their loved ones. As the spread of the Coronavirus appears to have faded, I pray that 2022 allows the outcast to be reunited soon.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 58: Changed Forever

Posted on March 30, 2022 by expressyourself4him

For a decade, I drove my children to school every day. When my older son James entered Junior High, I began to try to find Christian music to play on our ride to Red Lion. One of my high school Bible students led me toward Toby Mac. While I was never a fanatical fan of DC Talk, their former lead singer, Toby Mac’s Tonight album came at a perfect time. James connected with several of the songs on this album.

Be strong (confident) and of good courage, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. 7 Only you be strong and very courageous, that you may do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you. Turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go, Joshua 1:6-7.

Today’s featured song Changed Forever was one of those tunes that was repeated at least once each day. When I drove my golf team to away matches, Toby Mac stayed in my CD player without any objections. The lyrics of Changed Forever reminds me of the words of Joshua as he was preparing Israel to enter into God’s Promised Land. When you make the decision to follow Jesus, the Bible is a valuable resource to make sure you continue to be changed forever.

by Jay Mankus

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Feeling Invisible to the Outside World

Posted on March 30, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Ten years ago, I was forced to reinvent myself after losing my teaching position at Red Lion Christian Academy in the middle of the school year. After a couple of stints on unemployment, I landed back on my feet at Amazon. This June will mark the beginning of my 10th year at this company. Yet, my only option for a promotion was switching to the graveyard shift. While the benefits and pay have been a blessing to my family, it has come at a cost. Working nights for the past 8 years has made me invisible to the outside world.

Therefore, my dear ones, as you have always obeyed [my suggestions], so now, not only [with the enthusiasm you would show] in my presence but much more because I am absent, work out (cultivate, carry out to the goal, and fully complete) your own salvation with reverence and awe and trembling (self-distrust, [i]with serious caution, tenderness of conscience, watchfulness against temptation, timidly shrinking from whatever might offend God and discredit the name of Christ). 13 [Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while [j]effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and [k]delight, Philippians 2:12-13.

There are many things in life that don’t show or reveal dividends right away. While I have always dabbled in creative writing, writing screen plays has coincided with the last decade. Despite countless hours crafting, planning and typing, all I have is 3 completed manuscripts. There is no book deal, notoriety or agents knocking down my door to produce one of my films. My efforts are invisible to Hollywood. Sure, I have ideas for a 10-episode sit-com and a drama based upon a grown-up Joan of Arcadia, but for now I feel invisible to the outside world.

Do all things without grumbling and faultfinding and complaining [[l]against God] and [m]questioning and doubting [among yourselves], 15 That you may show yourselves to be blameless and guileless, innocent and uncontaminated, children of God without blemish (faultless, unrebukable) in the midst of a crooked and wicked generation [spiritually perverted and perverse], among whom you are seen as bright lights (stars or beacons shining out clearly) in the [dark] world, 16 Holding out [to it] and offering [to all men] the Word of Life, so that in the day of Christ I may have something of which exultantly to rejoice and glory in that I did not run my race in vain or spend my labor to no purpose, Philippians 2:14-16.

The passage above provides advice for anyone who feels invisible. Whenever you set out to cultivate and fulfill a goal, this process can be exhausting. As I listen to weekly screenwriting podcasts to keep my dream alive, the Bible contains instructions for the here and now. Complaining and grumbling about a lack of success doesn’t solve any problems. Instead, the apostle Paul urges believers to rise above your circumstances in life. Hold out hope by presenting yourself like a bright star piercing the darkness of the unknown. Fan into the flame the gifts and talents that God has given you to see what happens. Do your best and let God do the rest until your hard work is rewarded.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 57: The Lost Get Found

Posted on March 29, 2022 by expressyourself4him

I was first introduced to Britt Nicole by one of my former students at Red Lion Christian Academy. Since I often incorporated music into my lesson plans, Rachel realized that my Christian music was out of date. She gave me a couple of CD’s with single songs from multiple artists. After listening to the song Glow, I became a fan of Britt and have bought three different albums and counting.

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save that which was lost, Luke 19:10.

There are a couple of different versions of today’s featured song The Lost Get Found. While I purchased both versions, the remix combines solid biblical lyrics with an upbeat dance/hip hop sound. When I listen to the chorus of the Lost Get Found, I am reminded of a conversation that took place nearly 2000 years ago. After inviting Jesus into his home, Zacchaeus vows to transform his life as a perfect example of how the lost get found by God.

by Jay Mankus

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